Stair stepper

[Crewman9710]

Also worth noting is that while you'll get a cardio benefit from climbing stairs no matter what, I have a feeling that my climbing 'technique' improved from the practice. In other words, maintaining proper posture for carrying a pack and using a 'rest step' without thinking (borrowed from mountaineering, see here: rest step link.)

 

[Blind Squirrel]

I use them all, a stair stepper with a pack on i would rate at #2.(don't hold on, ever)
However, the biggest benefit I have seen from any of them is step ups. Specifically 18" step ups with a 40-50lb pack on, i'll move to 60lbs about 30 days before a sheep hunt. Right now i do 500 step ups followed by a 4 mile ruck, then 200 more stepups. I'll get up to 1000 before a hunt. It is mind numbing boring, but it works.

Stair climber with a pack is crazy. And yes, don’t use hands or you’re defeating the benefit. I like step ups but the stair climber prevents stopping to rest. Mind numbing…yup.